Objective: This study aimed to identify and rank the different aspects of households' vulnerability to food insecurity.
Design: The data were collected by a standard online questionnaire. The Household Food Insecurity Access Scale was used to assess food insecurity levels, and first-order structural equation modelling was applied to determine factors that affect food insecurity. Seven dimensions of vulnerability were measured: economic, social, cultural, human, physical, psychology and information, using thirty-seven items extracted from the related literature review.
Setting: This study was implemented in Tehran province in Iran.
Participants: The sample included 392 families residing in Tehran province which was determined using random sampling.
Results: About 61 % of the total sample faced food insecurity, at marginal, moderate and severe levels. Economic, psychological and human aspects of vulnerability had the highest effect on food insecurity during the initial COVID-19 lockdown.
Conclusions: Authorities and policymakers must provide economic and financial support to vulnerable households. Abolition of US economic and financial sanctions imposed on Iran must be implemented to battle with COVID-19 in this country.
Keywords: COVID-19 lockdown; Iran; household food insecurity; public health; vulnerability.